2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | Z3 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 3201 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
Torque | 163 Nm | 320 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |